How to record a call on an iPhone – and ensure it’s legal

Apple emphasizes a lot on customer privacy. However, this can pose a challenge to record a call on iPhone, and that too legally. That’s because Apple does not have an app to record calls on iPhones. And moreover, it does not allow most third-party apps to record the calls because of consumer privacy issues.

However, there are a few ways to record a call on iPhone. But before getting into how to record a call, let’s understand if recording a call on an iPhone is legal.

Is it legal to record a phone call on an iPhone?

Recording a phone call on an iPhone is a subject that’s often surrounded by legal uncertainties. The legality of call recording depends on various factors, including the jurisdiction, the purpose of the recording, and the consent of the parties involved.

Understanding consent in call recording

In many places, the legality of recording a phone call hinges on consent. Here’s how it typically breaks down:

• One-party consent: Some jurisdictions, like certain states in the US, allow call recording if you have consent from one of the parties in the conversation. If you’re part of the call, you can record it without informing the other party.
• All-party’s consent: In other regions, consent from every party involved in the conversation is required. This means you must inform all parties that the call is being recorded.

Specific regulations by country

• United Kingdom: In the UK, you can record phone calls on an iPhone for personal use, but you cannot publicize or sell the audio recording to a third party.
• United States: The laws for recording a phone call vary from state to state. You can refer to this link to check if recording a call is legal in your state.

Tools for legal call recording

If you decide to record phone calls, make sure to use legitimate means. Some options include:

• Call recording apps: Apps like Rev Call Recorder can be used to record incoming call options legally.
• Voicemail messages: Some carriers allow recording through voicemail, where you can save the conversation as voicemail messages.
• Google Voice account: If you have a Google Voice account, you can enable call recording for incoming calls.

Considerations for iOS and iPad users

If you’re using an iOS device or an iPad, be aware that the built-in microphone might not be sufficient for high-quality call recording. You may need to explore third-party call recording apps or services that comply with the legal requirements of your jurisdiction.

How to record a call on iPhone

Now that you know the laws, it’s time to learn different ways to record a call on iPhone, ensuring a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Using iPhone call recorder: Voice Memos app

The Voice Memos app is a built-in iPhone feature preinstalled on all Apple smartphones. However, you can also download it from the Apple Store if you don’t have it preinstalled.

This app doesn’t let you record an ongoing call, but only enables you to record sounds. If you have two iPhone devices, you can use the Voice Memos app on one device to record the call going on the other device.

Here’s how to use this app to record a call on iPhone:

1. Open the Voice Memos app on your first iPhone.
2. Make a call from the second iPhone device, and simultaneously press the red Record button on the Voice Memos app on your first iPhone.
3. Turn on the speaker of the second iPhone and turn up its volume.
4. Once the call is complete, press the Done button on the right-hand side of the screen in the Voice Memos app on the first device.

Using third-party apps to record a call on iPhone

While the built-in Voice Memos app enables you to record a call without installing any additional app, it lacks convenience. That’s because you will need two devices for that method to work. Several third-party apps allow you to record a call from within the iPhone. Some of these apps can be free to use, while others may require you to buy a subscription or license.

Here are some such apps you can use:

Google Voice

Google Voice is a free call recorder app currently available only in North America. It is based on the Voice over Internet Protocol principles and works over Wi-Fi. One of the key features of Google Voice is that it allows recording phone conversations.

Here’s how to record a call on iPhone using Google Voice:

1. Install the Google Voice app on your iPhone.
2. Register the phone number associated with your iPhone.
3. Tap the gear icon on the top right to access the settings.
4. Click on “Calls” and toggle on the “Incoming Calls Option.”
5. Press 4 to start or stop recording during a call.

TapeACall

TapeACall is another iPhone app with an outstanding audio recorder. The audio recorder allows you to record a call on your iPhone and even transcribe the call using its transcription service. You can then hear the recordings using an earbud or through the speaker.

While you can try TapeACall for free, accessing functions like the transcribe feature requires you to buy the license.

Here’s how to use TapeACall to record a call on iPhone:

1. Install the TapeACall app.
2. Tap the “Record” button and dial the number you wish to call.
3. Tap the “Merge Call” button to merge your call with TapeACall’s server and start recording it.

Conclusion

There are multiple ways on how to record a call on an iPhone. You can use the built-in Voice Memos app if you have two iPhone devices. Or you opt for third-party apps like Google Voice, which offers features like a voicemail tab and the ability to record in various states such as Washington, Florida, Vermont, Connecticut, and New Hampshire.

Alternatively, if you’re using an Android phone or Android device, there are similar apps available. Regardless of your chosen method, ensuring that you are recording the call legally is essential. This may involve understanding the laws in your state, such as the two-party consent rule in states like Florida, or the specific requirements for recording a customer service call.

Remember that, based on where you live, you may require the consent of one or both parties involved in the call. Always check the local laws and switch to the appropriate method to ensure compliance. Whether you’re in Vermont or Connecticut, understanding how to record a call on an iPhone legally is crucial for both personal and professional use.